My philosophy about healing

May I take a few minutes to share something serious with you?

I feel compelled to tell you my philosophy with regard to healing.

A long time ago, I read a book called "The Cancer Conquerer." I still have the book and could go back and review it, but the message that resounded with me was the importance of being positive. When I put Lamisil on my Athletes Foot, I expect it to work. When I go through chemo treatment for cancer, I expect it to work. When I drink Chaga Mushroom Tea, I expect it will help.

I believe that my ability to blog about my journey and to bring humor to the situation reflects that fundamental positive approach. It is not trumped up. I am totally confident that the cancer will be beaten.

I recently was given a book outlining nine things that can facilitate healing beyond the traditional treatments. It is called "Radical Remission."

Let me say first that I have full confidence in my treatments with Dr. Patel. However, some of these other approaches can help and certainly will not hurt.

1. Radically Changing Your Diet - I am comfortable with much of this. Chaga Mushroom Tea, Vitamin D3, Vitamin C, Turmeric, Selenium, vegetables and fruit are all good. I also understand the importance of cutting out sugar and processed food. I don't think that is radical. It is common sense.

2. Taking Control of Your Health - This means doing what you think is right whether your doctor agrees or not. I don't see any conflict here.

3. Following your Intuition - I think that is what I am doing

4. Using Herbs and Supplements - OK, as long as we don't get too extreme

5. Releasing Suppressed Emotions - I tend to think I am pretty relaxed about things, but I can identify stress points. The recommendation is to journal/track your emotions and consider seeing a "healer" or therapist. This is worth consideration.

6. Increasing Positive Emotions - This goes beyond what I talked about earlier. Greeting each day happily, enjoying life. I think I am there.

7. Embracing Social Support - Amen - you guys are great. Great emails, great hugs, great comments, wonderful caring, great gifts great research.  Thanks.

8. Deepening Your Spiritual Connection - Again, I say, Amen.

9. Having Strong Reasons for Living - My Life's work is not finished. Heck, I now have a new writing career according to many of you. And there are others, not the least of which is the Research Manager. Wimbledon? US Open? Vanderbilt (bridge).

I don't think that any of this is Radical, but I know that it will add up to Remission.

Thanks for listening.